For the second year in a row, the CHS boy’s tennis team has gone undefeated in the Marmonte league. The team is currently ranked sixth in the CIF Southern Section Division 1 and has only lost one match this season. CHS lost to Harvard Westlake who is currently ranked 2nd in the Southern Section and the score was a close 8-10.
The success of the tennis team is primarily the result of the team members’ hard work and dedication. In addition to practicing at school, all ten players practice on their own most nights and compete in individual tournaments several times a month.
“All the boys are working hard during practice and outside of practice on their own either by hitting with each other, playing in USTA tournaments, and/or taking private lessons with a tennis instructor,” said boys varsity tennis coach Kimberly Kinberg.
Each player contributes specialized skills which helps make for a well rounded team. The program is composed of two freshmen, two sophomores, two juniors and four seniors. These age differences gives the team a large variety of playing styles and talent.
Senior captain, Brett Buford is a strong leader. He has played Number One singles for the past three seasons. Buford’s strong backhand and quickness has ultimately allowed him to prevail this season. Buford has plans to pursue tennis in college next year at Chapman University.
“We have great team chemistry this year. We are also a really well balanced team, and have worked hard all season. We all like to work hard, and our results show that,” said senior captain Brett Buford. “We hope to win CIF this year and bring it home for Calabasas. I am confident that we can do it, and I can’t wait to end my great senior year on a high note.”
Junior and number three singles player, Max Swerdlick, has had many big wins throughout the season. He utilizes tons of spin to out rally his opponents. Him along with sophomore Jake Klein keep the singles strong and reliable.
Despite the uniqueness of each of the team members, the players still maintain a sense of unity. The boys’ are all good friends which adds a great team aspect to a mostly individual sport.
The boys’ first round of CIF starts on May 9th against La Canada. If they advance, their second round will be a tough opponent, Peninsula higschool, on May 11th.
